Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
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Frisco ISD Mission Statement
Our mission is to know every student by name and need.
Belief System
Education is a shared responsibility of students, school, home and community. With that as an essential principle,
we believe that:
Every person can learn.
Each person is ultimately responsible for his/her own learning.
Learning is lifelong and unlimited.
Each person is unique.
Everyone has equal inherent worth and deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
Everyone needs challenge and encouragement.
Imagination and creativity are vital.
Integrity is essential.
A safe and orderly environment is necessary for learning.
Meaningful relationships have profound lifelong impact.
There is always room for improvement.
INTRODUCTION
This Academic Guide has been developed to provide important information for students and their parents. It will
assist you in making wise, informed decisions concerning programs and course choices throughout your high
school years.
The goal of Frisco Independent School District is to prepare students as thoroughly as possible for the next phase
of their lives. Whether the student seeks post-secondary education or immediate employment in the work force,
this guide contains important information to help direct the student in making informed decisions throughout high
school. Information on grade classifications, graduation programs and class rank are included in this guide.
DISCRIMINATION DISCLAIMER
Frisco Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin,
sex or disability in providing education or providing access to benefits of education services, activities,
and programs, including career and technology programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights
Act of 1964 as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation
Act of 1973, as amended; and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
There are still clarifications being issued from the Texas Education Agency and the Texas State
Board of Education, especially in the areas of assessment, accountability, and graduation plans.
The information in this guide is accurate as of the time it went to print. This document will be
updated as information becomes available.
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Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
TABLE OF CONTENTS
STUDENT INFORMATION........................................................................................................................................... 5
Classification of Students.................................................................................................................................................. 5
Class Loads ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5
End of Course Exams........................................................................................................................................................ 6
Grading System ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
RANK IN CLASS POLICY............................................................................................................................................. 7
GPA Exempt Courses........................................................................................................................................................ 7
Weighted Grades............................................................................................................................................................... 7
Valedictorian/Salutatorian Requirements.......................................................................................................................... 7
Ties ................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Honor Graduates Five-Year and Beyond Graduates......................................................................................................... 7
Transfer Students.............................................................................................................................................................. 7
Transfer Grades ................................................................................................................................................................ 8
GENERAL INFORMATION........................................................................................................................................... 9
Academic All-Stars........................................................................................................................................................... 9
Academic Letter Jackets................................................................................................................................................... 9
Changing Class Schedules................................................................................................................................................ 9
Community Service Program............................................................................................................................................ 9
Credit by Exam for Acceleration.................................................................................................................................... 10
Credit Recovery Guidelines............................................................................................................................................ 11
Dual-Credit Courses........................................................................................................................................................ 11
Early Graduation............................................................................................................................................................. 12
Grade Level and Prerequisites........................................................................................................................................ 12
Late Arrival or Early Release.......................................................................................................................................... 12
Official Transcripts......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Special Education................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Top 10% Program........................................................................................................................................................... 12
TSI.................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Texas Grant..................................................................................................................................................................... 13
FAFSA............................................................................................................................................................................. 13
ACT and SAT.................................................................................................................................................................. 13
PSAT/NMSQT................................................................................................................................................................ 13
Pre-AP & Advanced Placement Program....................................................................................................................... 13
Pre-AP & AP® courses offered at FISD High Schools.................................................................................................. 14
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Gifted and Talented Program.......................................................................................................................................... 14
Graduation Program for Senior Class 2016-2017........................................................................................................... 15
Graduation Program Information ...................................................................................................................................................... 16
Graduation Program for Senior Class of 2018 and Beyond .............................................................................................................. 17
Foundation High School Program and Endorsementts........................................................................................................................ 18
Student Fees.................................................................................................................................................................... 19
CTE Associated Course Fees.......................................................................................................................................... 20
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Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
STUDENT INFORMATION
Classification of Students
The following standards apply to grade classification. Standing is determined at the start of each school year. Classification is for
the complete school year.
Freshman: A student entering high school for the first time or having fewer than 6 credits.
To Become A Sophomore: A student in the second year of high school who has earned a minimum of 6 credits will be classified
as a sophomore.
To Become A Junior: A student in the third year of high school who has earned a minimum of 12 credits will be classified as a
junior.
To Become A Senior: A student who has earned a minimum of 18 credits and who is enrolled in a program that will allow for
graduation will be classified as a senior.
Students that are enrolled in the correct number of credits to graduate in the current school year may also be classified as a senior
with principal approval.
Class Loads
In order to qualify as a full time student Frisco ISD students must be enrolled in at least the equivalent of 6 credit classes each
semester, 5 of which must be state credits. Since FISD high schools have an eight period schedule, early dismissal permits may be
granted for 11th and 12th grade students if they are satisfactorily progressing toward graduation. All 9th and 10th grade students
must be enrolled in eight class periods.
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
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STAAR End of Course Exams (EOCs)
Students in the class of 2015 and beyond will take STAAR End of Course (EOC) Assessments in accordance with state law.
Satisfactory performance on all EOCs is a graduation requirement. Students not meeting satisfactory performance on EOCs will
be given the opportunity to retest three times per year in accordance to the state testing calendar. A four-hour time limit applies to
Algebra I, Biology, and U.S. History. A five-hour time limit applies to English I and English II.
Courses with STAAR EOC Assessments
•
•
•
•
English I & II
Algebra I
Biology
U.S. History
Students:
• STAAR EOC Students are:
- Students in grades 6-8 taking an EOC assessed course (Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, U.S. History) or
- High School students taking an EOC assessed course
Middle School Students Enrolled in High School STAAR EOC Tested Courses
Middle school students enrolled in high school EOC tested courses will only be required to take the EOC assessment for the
courses that they are enrolled in.
Performance Labels
The labels for the performance categories are:
• Level III: Advanced Academic Performance
• Level II: Satisfactory Academic Performance
• Level I: Unsatisfactory Academic Performance
8th Grade STAAR
8th grade students must meet Level II: Satisfactory Academic Performance on both Math and Reading STAAR assessments.
When students do not meet Level II within allowed retest windows, the Grade Placement Committee, along with the parent, student,
and campus representatives will meet to determine a plan. The committee determines whether to place the student in 9th grade
and to develop a plan for accelerated instruction during the next school year to ensure the student meets the standards set for each
EOC. Students identified at risk of failing any EOC Assessment may be assigned to attend tutorials before or after school or they
may be assigned to classes designed to better prepare them for success on EOCs.
Students Not Meeting Level II: Satisfactory Performance on EOCs
• Additional academic support will be provided by the district for students failing to meet the Satisfactory Standard for each
assessment.
• Parents and students will receive information regarding additional support and test dates.
• Students may not be eligible for late arrival/early release as juniors and seniors if they have failed to meet the requirements of
the STAAR assessment program.
Special Note: Be advised that the laws for assessment and accountability will continue to be analyzed and interpreted by
the Texas Education Agency (TEA). This document will be updated as new information is provided by TEA.
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Frisco Independent School District
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Grading System
Student academic evaluation is achieved through the use of a grading system. An average grade of 70 is required for successful
completion of a course. The grading system of the Frisco Independent School District shall be in accordance with the following scale:
A - 90-100
B - 80-89
C - 70-79
F - Below 70
One-half credit may be earned in one semester. Students who fail one semester of a course may:
a. Take the semester failed when offered to gain a passing grade.
b. Be permitted to continue the course and by cumulative grade average pass the unit during the current school year.
c. If the course is not a required course, the student may choose to take another elective.
Each teacher is required to effectively communicate their grading standards to students and parents. Grade reports are posted
each six weeks, usually on the Friday following the end of the grading period. Progress reports to parents are posted at three-week
intervals. All FISD secondary schools participate in the Home Access Center, a web-based communications system that allows
parents and students to obtain information online regarding the student’s current grades as well as assignment information. Students
and parents will be given instructions regarding utilization of this system at the beginning of the year.
GPA and RANK IN CLASS POLICY
Rank in class, honor graduate status, valedictorian, and salutatorian
determination shall be based on a weighted grade point average (GPA)
system. Grade points shall be based on semester grades for courses
taken in grades 9–12 and courses taken in middle school for high
school credit. The GPA shall be computed to three decimal places. The
average of the fourth and fifth six-week grades in the semester prior to
graduation shall count as a semester grade for purposes of determining
rank, honor graduate status, valedictorian, and salutatorian.
GPA Exempt Courses All high school
credit courses taken during the regular
school year shall count toward the GPA,
except for the following: aide positions,
peer tutoring, SAT-prep classes, college
credits that are not dual credits, driver’s
education, credit by examination credits,
correspondence school courses, and
online courses (online courses taken
outside of FISD and school day). No
credit or grade points shall be assigned
for summer enrichment programs. Note Successful completion of FISD Summer
School courses may result in credit being
awarded, but GPA will not be calculated
for the summer school courses.
Weighted Grades All numeric grades
shall be converted to a weighted scale
(see chart). No grade points shall be
awarded for any grade below a 70.
Honor Graduates Each level of Honor Graduates will be determined by
the student’s grade point average at the end
Grade Point AP/PAP College Regular
of the fifth six weeks which will be no lower
Dual Credit
6.0
100
than 4.0 with no rounding. Three levels of
5.9
99
Honor Graduates will be denoted: Summa
5.8
98
5.7
97
Cum Laude – Top 10 graduates; Magna
5.6
96
5.5
95
100
Cum Laude – Top 10 percent of graduates;
5.4
94
99
and Cum Laude – Graduates with Grade
5.3
93
98
5.2
92
97
Point Average of 4.0 or above.
5.1
91
96
5.0
90
95
100
4.9
89
94
99
4.8
88
93
98
4.7
87
92
97
4.6
86
91
96
4.5
85
90
95
4.4
84
89
94
4.3
83
88
93
4.2
82
87
92
4.1
81
86
91
4.0
80
85
90
3.9
79
84
89
3.8
78
83
88
3.7
77
82
87
3.6
76
81
86
3.5
75
80
85
3.4
74
79
84
3.3
73
78
83
3.2
72
77
82
3.1
71
76
81
3.0
70
75
80
2.9
<70 no points
74
79
2.8
73
78
2.7
72
77
2.6
71
76
2.5
70
75
2.4
<70 no points
74
2.3
73
2.2
72
2.1
71
2.0
70
<70 no points
Valedictorian and Salutatorian
Requirements Each district high
school shall have a valedictorian
and salutatorian. Candidates must
be 8 semester graduates and in
attendance at the awarding high
school continuously, commencing with
enrollment no later than the first day
of the second six-week grading period
of the student’s junior year through
graduation. The valedictorian shall be
the eligible graduate with the highest
GPA; the salutatorian shall be the
eligible graduate with the second highest GPA.
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
Ties In case of a tie, the tie shall be broken with the following series
of tiebreakers: Count the number of AP® classes taken (the highest
number shall be declared valedictorian). If still tied, add to this count
the number of Pre-AP courses taken. If still tied, add to this count the
number of honors courses taken. If still tied, average the junior and
senior years only.
Transfer Students All transferred credits
will be calculated for GPA in accordance
with FISD guidelines. Weighted GPA points
for an advanced course will be awarded
only if:
- the course is recorded as advanced on
an official Academic Achievement Record
(AAR)
and
- a comparable course was offered in FISD
during the same school year.
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TRANSFER GRADES
Transcripts from within the United States:
When a transcript is received from an accredited school within the United States, credit and GPA points may be awarded following
review by the school staff. The list below will be used to determine the numerical equivalency to letter grades, when letter grades are all
that is listed on the transcript. If a numerical range is listed on the transcript, the midpoint will be calculated and used.
91 for A-
95 for A
98 for A+
81 for B-
85 for B
88 for B+
71 for C75 for C
78 for C+
(If prior district awarded credit for a D, a grade of 70 would be transferred.)
Transcripts from outside the United States:
Parents are responsible for providing a transcript translated into English if translation is required. Transcripts from outside of the United
States (except for accredited international schools or Department of Defense schools as described as above) will not received a letter
grade or numerical equivalency. A “P” for passing will be assigned to designate that credit was earned and GPA points are not awarded.
The maximum number of transcribed course credits that may be awarded via transcript per school year is eight. Credit is awarded
based on review by school staff.
Accredited international schools that deliver the majority of the instruction in English and utilize an American-based curriculum, as well
as Department of Defense schools, will be reviewed in the same manner as transcripts received from accredited schools from within the
United States. Credit and GPA points may be awarded following review by school staff.
Credit for Languages other than English:
If a student took courses in a native language in high school or middle school and the transcript includes credit for the courses labeled
with the language, credit will be awarded. If there is no literature or language credit listed on the transcript, no LOTE credit can be
awarded.
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Frisco Independent School District
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Academic All-Stars
At the end of the fifth six weeks, students who have been enrolled in at least the minimum number of courses and attained a grade no
lower than 90 on any six weeks grade, will be designated an “Academic All-Star.” An award will be presented to these students at the
awards assembly at the end of the school year. The semester grades for dual credit courses will be used and no points will be added
for dual credit, honors or AP® courses.
Academic Lettering
FISD has a long tradition of recognizing and rewarding academic achievement through awarding an Academic Letter. Beginning in the
2017-2018 school year, students may earn this recognition by meeting the standards outlined below.
1. A current student must earn a cumulative 4.5 GPA or higher for a minimum of five semesters of high school coursework, with at least
one being in Frisco ISD.
2. All classes that count for class rank will be calculated in a student’s GPA.
3. Students who have less than a 4.5 GPA after five semesters, but whose cumulative GPA improves to 4.5 or higher at the end of any
subsequent semester may apply for the award after GPAs are updated by the campus registrar and posted in Family Connection.
4. Students who believe they are eligible after the first semester of their junior year must complete an application for an Academic
Letter through the registrar’s office.
Participants in Academic UIL and Academic Decathlon may earn this recognition by meeting the standards outlined below:
1. A student who wins a medal or ribbon either individually or on a team at the District Academic UIL Competition or Academic
Decathlon competition.
2. Students who have not medaled but have competed at the district competition for a minimum of two years and are deemed to be of
outstanding value to the team may also apply.
Students who believe they are eligible must contact their Academic UIL or Academic Decathlon coach to identify the campus procedure
for applying.
Students may receive only one Academic Letter during their high school career.
Students purchase their own jacket, but the campus will provide one Academic Letter at no cost for students whose application is
approved by the campus Registrar.
While the student qualifies to purchase a jacket based this criteria, the Academic Letter is provided by the campus at no cost.
Changing Class Schedules
Students pre-enroll in the spring semester for the upcoming school year, and the master schedule will be based on that information.
Students will be able to see and change their course requests through April 13, 2017, by contacting their counselor. Following this
deadline, only program changes will be allowed through the second week of each semester.
Pre AP/AP® classes are the only classes that may be dropped at the end of the 1st six weeks grading period of a course or at the end
of the semester. This change will occur only if the teacher, student and parent concur on the change. If consensus is not achieved, the
issue will be referred to the Campus Intervention Team.
Community Service Program
The purpose of the program is to promote volunteer service to the school and community. Students who complete all requirements of
the program will be recognized at their graduation ceremony by a colored cord and recognition in the graduation program.
Students wishing to participate should complete 100 hours of service, either individually or as part of a group project. All documented
volunteer hours will be accepted including required hours completed for other organizations. The hours must be completed in grades
9-12 (hours completed during the summer following the 8th grade will also be accepted).
Students must complete documentation as required by their individual high school. Check with your counselor to see the required
methods for your campus. Hours should be turned in no later than April 1st of the year in which the student intends to graduate.
Undocumented hours will not be accepted.
Frisco Independent School District
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Community Service Guidelines:
• Volunteer work done for a non-profit organization geared towards improving the community (Red Cross, American Cancer Society, Frisco Family Services, etc.).
• Volunteer work done as part of a civic, religious, school, charity or community organization geared towards improving the community or school (Rotary Club, NHS, Frisco Family Services, etc.).
• Work performed by a religious organization must be work that could be performed by a non-religious organization.
• Must be completed outside the school day.
Examples of Activities for which Community Service hours may not be awarded:
• Babysitting for a neighbor without being paid.
• Tutoring your little brother (tutoring others may count if arranged through the NHS or the counseling department).
Credit by Exam
High School Credit by Examination - Without Prior Instruction
High school students who wish to earn credit for a course in which they have had no prior formal instruction may test through credit
by exam. Examinations for Grade 9-12 are criterion-referenced tests from Texas Tech University, University of Texas, or the testing
instruments approved by the Superintendent or designee. Student must demonstrate 80% or higher mastery on the exam in order to
earn credit. Courses taken for high school credit will not be computed in class rank. Students are encouraged to review the course
study guide on the university website. If a student fails to achieve the designated score for a subject before the beginning of the school
year in which the student would ordinarily be required to enroll in that subject, the student must satisfactorily complete the course to
receive credit. ***Due to changes in exams for acceleration, §74.24 of 19 TAC, an EOC assessed course must now be validated to
meet more rigorous requirements. Since there is not currently an assessment that meets the new validation criteria instituted by The
Texas Education Agency for an EOC assessed course, we cannot offer an exam for acceleration for EOC tested subjects at this time.
Texas Tech University https://www.depts.ttu.edu/ttuisd/cbe_review_sheets.php
University of Texas www.utexas.edu/cee/dec/k16/index.php?page=credit
Applications are available from the high school counselor and must be returned to the counselor for processing. Parents should be
aware that there are no exceptions available for students to test for acceleration and plan accordingly. Students may test at any time
during the testing window, but must be registered by the test application deadline. A student may take a specific examination only
once during each window. The application deadline and testing window will be determined at the start of each school year and can be
found at :
http://www.friscoisd.org/ly/departments/Testing/FriscoISDOnlineCreditbyExamination-HighSchool.htm
For students who move to the Frisco community at the start of the school year, every effort will be made to provide an opportunity for
students to test during the second or third week of school, if the course credit is necessary for first semester course scheduling. There
is no charge for testing. Students who register for an examination and do not take the examination will be assessed a fine equivalent to
the cost of procuring the examination. Exam results will be sent to the counselor after scoring is completed.
Students who may potentially be candidates for athletic scholarships should be advised that credits earned through credit by exam
may not qualify for minimum core course requirements under NCAA guidelines. See the following link for specific information:
https://web1.ncaa.org/ECWR2/NCAA_EMS/NCAA.jsp
Credit by Examination- With Prior Instruction
Students, under certain circumstances, may be able to take credit by exam for a course in which they have had prior instruction but
did not receive credit. This option must be approved by the campus principal (or designee). This option generally applies to students
who have not earned credit due to extenuating circumstances such as a family move, illness, etc. To be eligible for a credit by exam,
a student must have had prior instruction in the course. It also may apply to students who were home schooled or attended a nonaccredited private school and need state approved credit. Students who attended school in a foreign country which was taught in a
language other than English may also qualify to test that language (French, Spanish, German) with prior instruction. Students are
encouraged to review the admission requirements for universities before choosing the credit by exam option. Students who may
potentially be candidates for athletic scholarships should be advised that credits earned through credit by exam may not qualify for
minimum core course requirements under NCAA guidelines. See the following link for specific information:
https://web1.ncaa.org/ECWR2/NCAA_EMS/NCAA.jsp
Texas Tech University https://www.depts.ttu.edu/ttuisd/cbe_review_sheets.php
University of Texas www.utexas.edu/cee/dec/k16/index.php?page=credit
Students must demonstrate 70% or higher mastery on the exams. Applications are available from the school counselor. There is a
fee of $45-$50 (depending on exam) for each semester exam. Students may test at any time during the testing window, but must be
registered by the test application deadline. The application deadline and testing window will be determined at the start of each school
year and can be found at : http://www.friscoisd.org/ly/departments/Testing/FriscoISDOnlineCreditbyExamination-HighSchool.htm
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Frisco Independent School District
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Credit Recovery Guidelines
The goal of the Frisco ISD Credit Recovery Program is to assist students deficient in credits while at the same time preserving
the integrity of the FISD diploma. FISD will ensure that every student has the opportunity to acquire the credits necessary to earn
a diploma. It is the responsibility of each student to be aware of their progress toward a diploma and to take full advantage of the
assistance available. Students who may potentially be candidates for athletic scholarships should be advised that credits earned
through credit recovery may not qualify for minimum core course requirements under NCAA guidelines. See the following link for
specific information: https://web1.ncaa.org/ECWR2/NCAA_EMS/NCAA.jsp
High school students who fail a course may recover credit through the following options:
1. Correspondence
2. Credit by Examination
3. Summer School
4. Online courses (with prior approval of principal or designee)
5. Repeating the class during the school day
6. Night school
7. Credit recovery course during the school day (not available first-year high school students). Students must first demonstrate
effort to recover credit through an option listed above before enrollment in a school day program will be considered. An exception
will be made only in extenuating circumstances (i.e. extended illness, homelessness, teen parent, students new to FISD) as
determined by the Campus Intervention Team and the campus principal).
Fifth year students:
Fifth year students will be referred to the Student Opportunity Center to complete graduation requirements.
The following information pertains to all grade levels:
• Any cost associated with Credit Recovery option will be the responsibility of the student and parent.
• Transportation to and from the Student Opportunity Center for students attending the SOC credit recovery program full time
during the school day will be provided by the district. Parents and student will be responsible for transportation for all other credit
recovery classes taken at the SOC.
• Seniors planning to participate in graduation must provide proof of credit earned and recorded at least 5 school days before
graduation. All other students must provide proof of credit prior to the start of the following school year in order to receive credit
that would result in promotion to the next grade level. Reclassification is only done each year prior to the start of the school.
• Students must seek prior approval from appropriate campus staff before enrolling in any of the credit recovery options.
• Students should refer to existing guidelines for details regarding correspondence, credit by exam, summer school, night school
or online courses.
• Final decisions regarding placement in credit recovery rest with the campus principal.
• Correspondence courses do not require previous instruction. Frisco ISD recognizes and utilizes correspondence courses
primarily from the University of Texas and Texas Tech University. Students who wish to have more information should contact
their counselor.
Dual Credit Courses
Qualified students may be enrolled concurrently in a FISD High school and Collin College for specified classes noted in the FISD
Course Catalog. Students in dual credit courses earn both high school and college credit. Students must meet Collin College
admissions requirements and secure their high school counselor’s approval for the dual credit courses selected. Students must
successfully complete the Texas Success Initiative Examination (TSI) or provide proof of exemption from TSI, and an A/B grade point
average is recommended. Courses are being added each year starting in the 2017-18 school year that will allow 2021 graduates
to earn an Associate’s Degree through Collin College while completing the requirements for a high school diploma. Students are
responsible for paying for tuition, books, and fees associated with Collin College dual credit courses. Transportation is not provided
to or from Collin College. Students seeking to earn an Associate’s Degree should secure academic advising provided through Collin
College as well as their high school counselor to ensure their degree plan meets their needs. See counselors and the course catalog
for details. Additionally, if a student does not achieve a passing grade of 70 or above in the first semester of the dual credit course,
the student will be required to discontinue the dual credit course and take the subsequent semester of the course at their high school
campus.
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Early Graduation
Students interested in early graduation should see their counselor. All high school students who apply to graduate early must complete
the requirement for one of the Frisco ISD Foundation High School Graduation Program plus endorsements. Frisco ISD Graduation
Plans unless the student, the student’s parent/guardian and a school administrator agree in writing that there are extenuating
circumstances or extreme hardships. If an agreement is reached, then the student will be allowed to graduate under the Foundation
High School Program and will adhere to the requirements outlined in Education Code 28.025(b), (b-7). A declaration of intent to
graduate early must be filed after May 1 of the second year of high school but prior to September 1 of the third year. Requests made
after May 1 will be considered for approval by the Superintendent or his designee.
Course Enrollment - Grade Level Requirements and Prerequisites
Enrollment is limited by grade levels listed. Students must be classified in the appropriate grade in order to sign up for a course. The
prerequisite listed must be met and passed for each course. Please note grade and prerequisites with each course description. The
course catalog is available at http://www.friscoisd.org/ly/parentsstudents/highschoolcourseacademiccatalogs.htm.
Late Arrival or Early Release
Juniors and seniors who are on track for graduation with regard to both credit and EOC requirements may sign up for either late arrival or
early release. Students who opt for either must have transportation and may not be on campus when they are not scheduled in a class.
Any student unable to leave campus immediately after their last class will not be permitted to have early release.
Online courses through TxVSN (Texas Virtual School Network)
Students may continue attaining high school credit through online courses from TxVSN or by taking and passing Credit by Exams
(CBE’s). Online courses are GPA exempt. See page #10 for exceptions.
Official Transcripts
Official transcripts are free for current students and $5 for alumni. Unofficial transcripts are free and the number is unlimited. Transcripts
should be requested at www.parchment.com.
Special Education
Students experiencing difficulties in school may be referred for services in special education. Before a student can receive special
education and/or related services for the first time, an initial evaluation must be conducted. Decisions regarding the provision of special
education services are made by an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD)committee. If a student is determined to be eligible for
services in accordance with the Texas Education Agency guidelines, an individualized education plan is developed. Instruction that is
designed to meet a student’s unique educational needs may be provided in a variety of settings. Instructional settings may include (a)
general education classroom with accommodations, (b) general education classroom with support, (c) resource classroom, (d) selfcontained classroom, or (e) a separate campus. Related services necessary for the student to benefit from special education may also
be provided.
Top 10% Program (Excluding University of Texas at Austin)
Top students are eligible for automatic admission to any public university in Texas. Under House Bill 588 passed by the 75th legislature
in 1997, students who are in the top ten percent of their graduating class are eligible for automatic admission to any public university in
Texas.*
To be eligible for automatic admission, a student must:
• Graduate in the top 10 percent of his/her class at a public or private high school in Texas on the recommended, distinguished
achievement program, or distinguished level of achievement.
• Enroll in college no more than two years after graduating from high school; and
• Submit an application to a Texas public university for admission before the institution’s application deadline. Since deadlines
vary, please check with the specific university to verify the application deadline. Application deadlines are FIRM deadlines. A
student missing a deadline is usually denied admission.
*See http://bealonghorn.utexas.edu/ for information regarding UT admission.
**Students deficient in admission requirements MAY be required to take enrichment courses before being admitted.
***The law states that class rank shall be based on the end of 11th grade, middle of 12th grade, or at high school graduation, whichever
is most recent when the application is completed.
TSI
TSI is a state-mandated placement test for Texas public colleges and universities. Effective in the fall 1998, the Texas Legislature
requires that all first-time college students take the TSI test prior to the first day of college classes. Students may be exempt from TSI
with an:
•
•
ACT composite score of 23 with a minimum of 19 on both the mathematics and English tests or;
SAT score of 1070 in critical reading and math combined with a minimum of 500 on each of the mathematical and critical
reading tests
For more information on TSI, contact your college or university.
12
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
TEXAS Grant
The state legislature established the TEXAS (Towards Excellence, Access and Success) Grant to make sure that well-prepared high
school graduates with financial need could go to college.
For more information: http://www.collegeforalltexans.com/apps/financialaid/tofa2.cfm?ID=458
FAFSA
Students in their final year of high school should be reminded of how important it is to apply for financial aid early in their final year
and each following year, as long as they are in post-secondary education or training. There are many merit scholarships available to
students through the completion of the FAFSA application at https://fafsa.ed.gov.
ACT and SAT
Registration for the SAT® and ACT® should be completed online at: ACT - www.ACTStudent.org / SAT - www.SAT.org. Students
should see their counselor for help in determining which test to take. Students should plan to take their admissions test in the spring of
their junior year. Information about registration, dates, and cost can be obtained at www.SAT.org and www.ACT.org.
Register online at:
www.SAT.org www.act.org (ACT®)
School codes are as follows:
CHS 442-633
HHS 442-488
LTHS 440-001
FHS 442-635
LSHS 442-638
LHS 445-579
IHS 442-626
WHS 442-602
RHS 442-627
PSAT/NMSQT
The Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test is a multiple choice standardized test administered by the College
Board and National Merit Scholars Corporation (NMSC).
Free SAT and ACT Prep:
Students have access to free online practice tests for the SAT at https://sat.collegeboard.org/practice and https://www.khanacademy.
org/sat and at http://actstudent.org/onlineprep/ for ACT.
AP® Exam Dates
Advanced placement exams are administered the first two weeks of May. Please see www.collegeboard.org for more specific
information.
PRE-AP and Advanced Placement Program
What is the Pre-AP/AP® Program?
The Pre-AP/AP® Program allows students to participate in college preparatory courses and college level courses while still in high
school. Secondary schools and colleges cooperate in this program to give students the opportunity to show mastery in college level
courses by taking AP® exams in May of each school year. With successful completion of an AP® exam, many colleges will issue
college credit.
What are the advantages of my student taking Pre-AP/AP® courses?
The main advantage of taking a Pre-AP/AP® course is better preparation for college. Students who take AP exams may receive
college credit while still in high school, saving both time and money. Because the AP® curriculum is standardized across the nation,
colleges and universities look favorably on students who have completed this course work, as they understand the depth and breadth
of these challenging courses. Selected universities may expect to see AP® course work on a transcript. Students planning to apply to
highly competitive colleges and universities are encouraged to take full advantage of Pre-AP and AP® course offerings.
Who can enroll in a Pre-AP/AP® course?
Any student can enroll in a Pre-AP or AP® course. Students should consider their grades in prior course work, teacher
recommendations and achievement levels on PSAT, or other standardized tests when making decisions on the Pre-AP and AP®
program. Counselors can help students make informed decisions on the appropriate level course work, but admission is open to
any student who chooses to take a Pre-AP or AP® class. Students are cautioned to choose their classes carefully and to pay
attention to their overall class load and extra-curricular load.
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
13
Pre-AP and AP® courses offered at FISD High Schools
Pre-Advanced
Advanced
Placement
Placement
English 1 English Language and Composition Art History
English 2
English Literature and Composition Studio Art: 2-D Design
Biology World HistoryStudio Art: 3-D Design
Chemistry
United States History
Studio Art: Drawing
Spanish 2
United States Government and Politics
Music Theory
Spanish 3
Macroeconomics
Computer Science A
French 2
European History
Calculus AB
French 3
Human Geography
Calculus BC
Geometry BiologyStatistics
Algebra 2
Chemistry
French Language & Culture
Pre-Calculus
Physics 1 and 2
Spanish Literature & Culture
Algebra I
Physics C: Mechanics
Spanish Language & Culture
Art I Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
Psychology
Comp Science Environmental Science AP Seminar GT Humanities IGT Humanities IIAP Research (beginning 17-18)
Chinese 3
Chinese Language & Culture
Pre-AP and AP® course availability at each high school will be based on student enrollment numbers in the course.
Gifted and Talented Program
The high school gifted student is served through GT Humanities I/ Pre-AP English I in ninth grade and GT Humanities II/ AP World
History in tenth grade. Specific subject advanced placement courses and fine arts electives also provide challenge and enrichment for
these students. Presentation and research projects are important components of advanced classes. In addition, gifted and advanced
eleventh and twelfth grade students may interview and apply for the Independent Study and Mentorship Program (ISM).
14
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
Graduation Program for Senior Class of 2018 and Beyond
House
Bill 5 was signed into law in the summer of 2013 and one of its provisions was to change high school graduation plans for all students who enter high school during the 2014-15 school year and thereafter. The bill provides
more flexibility for high school students to pursue either higher education or a career. Generally speaking, House Bill
5 established a single graduation program, the Foundation High School Program (FHSP). Students will also have the
opportunity to build on the FHSP by earning Endorsements, Performance Acknowledgements, and a Distinguished
Level of Achievement. Students will need to declare their preferred endorsement area, in writing, by the beginning of
their 9th grade year. Students should see their counselors if they wish to change their endorsements.
The endorsement areas are:
□ Arts & Humanities
□ Business & Industry
□ Multidisciplinary
□ Public Service
□ Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)
NOTE: To earn the STEM endorsement students MUST take Algebra II, Chemistry & Physics in concert with other Foundation + Endorsement Program requirements
FISD offers courses to meet endorsements in all areas. There are specific course requirements in the foundation
curriculum based on the Endorsement selected; however, most students meet the requirement of multiple endorsements without making a special effort to do so. Electives should be selected that will best prepare the student for
post-secondary work.
A student may elect to graduate without an endorsement under the high school foundation program with school administrator approval after the student’s sophomore year. The student and the student’s parent or guardian must be
advised by the school counselor of the benefits of graduating with one or more endorsement and the student’s parent
or guardian must file written permission with the high school allowing the student to graduate without an endorsement.
It is important to note that the State Board of Education and the Texas Education Agency will release additional clarifications. That information will be incorporated into this guide when available. Therefore contents
in this guide are subject to change according to changes from either entity and the most recent information
will be posted in this document or on the FISD website.
The default for all FISD students beginning with the class of 2018 will be the Distinguished Level of Achievement.
More specific information about the graduation programs and the endorsements may be found at:
http://www.friscoisd.org/ly/departments/GuidanceCounseling/graduationplans2018.htm
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
15
Distinguished Level of Achievement (DLA) (26 credits)
The Distinguished Level of Achievement (DLA) is the highest graduation program in the state of Texas for students entering high
school in 2014-2015 and beyond. The FHSP+Endorsement with DLA is the default for all FISD students.
In order to be considered for Top Ten Percent Automatic Admission in Texas Public Universities, graduates MUST earn a
Distinguished Level of Achievement diploma.
A student may earn a Distinguished Level of Achievement by successfully completing the curriculum requirements that meet and exceed the Foundation Program and successfully completing the following:
□ The curriculum requirements for one or more Endorsement(s) to include a coherent sequence of courses that are content
specific to the chosen endorsement
□ Additional coursework to include:
•Four credits in mathematics, including Algebra II
•Four credits in approved science courses
Foundation High School Program + Endorsement (26 credits)
Endorsements are described in detail in the “Frisco ISD Graduation Guide for the Class of 2018 & Beyond” – available at:
http://www.friscoisd.org/ly/departments/GuidanceCounseling/graduationplans2018.htm
This guide includes: core course requirements by endorsement, sample four-year graduation programs, and Frisco ISD course
offerings by endorsement. The curriculum requirements for earning an endorsement require a student to meet and exceed the
Foundation Program and successfully completing the following:
□ The curriculum requirements for one or more Endorsement(s) to include a coherent sequence of courses that are content
specific to the chosen endorsement
□ Additional coursework to include:
•Four credits in mathematics
•Four credits in approved science courses
Foundation High School Program (FHSP) (25 credits)
This option is the minimum graduation program available. However, it is not available until after the completion of the sophomore
year. Changing to this graduation program will require parent and administrative approval in writing. Parents and students need to
understand graduating on this program may not meet college or university entrance requirements.
The only difference between the FHSP+Endorsement Program and the DLA is the requirement that Algebra II must be one of
the four credits in mathematics.
16
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
Graduation Program For Senior Class 2018 AND BEYOND
SUBJECT AREA
FOUNDATION HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
(May only be selected at the
conclusion of the 10th grade year)
ENGLISH
4 Credits
• English I
• English II
• English III
• English IV or College Readiness
MATH
3 Credits
• Algebra I
• Geometry
• 3rd Credit of Math*
4 Credits
• English I
• English II
• English III
• English IV or College Readiness
4 Credits
• Algebra I
• Geometry
• Algebra II (Required for Distinguished
(*If Math Models is taken, the class must be
Level of Achievement)***
successfully completed after taking Algebra I AND • 4th Credit of Math *
prior to taking Algebra II)
(*If Math Models is taken, the class must be
successfully completed after taking Algebra I AND
prior to taking Algebra II)
SCIENCE
3 Credits
• Biology
• An additional credit must be selected from
the following courses:
□ IPC
□ Chemistry
□ Physics
• One additional science credit may be
selected from the course catalog
4 Credits
• Biology
• An additional credit must be selected from
the following courses:
□ IPC
□ Chemistry
□ Physics
• Two additional science credits may be
selected from the course catalog
SOCIAL STUDIES
4 Credits
• World Geography
• World History
• U.S. History
• Economics (.5 credit)
• US Government (.5 credit)
4 Credits
• World Geography
• World History
• U.S. History
• Economics (.5 credit)
• US Government (.5 credit)
FINE ARTS
1 Credit
• Fine Arts (see course catalog for options)
1 Credit
• Fine Arts (see course catalog for options)
SPEECH
.5 Credits
• Professional Communications
.5 Credits
• Professional Communications
HEALTH
.5 Credits
• Health
.5 Credits
• Health
TECHNOLOGY
APPLICATIONS
1 Credit
• Technology Applications (see course catalog
for options)
1 Credit
• Technology Applications (see course catalog
for options)
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
2 Credits from the Same Language
• Spanish
• French
• Chinese
• American Sign Language
2 Credits from the Same Language
• Spanish
• French
• Chinese
• American Sign Language
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
1 Credit
• Physical Education (see course catalog for
options)
1 Credit
• Physical Education (see course catalog for
options)
ADDITIONAL COURSES
TOTAL
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
FHSP+ENDORSEMENT
OR
DISTINGUISHED LEVEL OF ACHIEVEMENT
5.0 Credits
(see course guide for options)
4.0 Credits
(see course catalog for options)
25 CREDITS
26 CREDITS
(4 credits must be in a coherent sequence and
content specific to an endorsement area.)
17
Graduation Program Worksheet
2018 & Beyond
9th Grade
8th or Summer
School
18
10th Grade
11th Grade
1. English III
12th Grade
1. English I
1. English II
1. English IV
2. Algebra I or
Geometry
2. Algebra, Geometry or 2. Algebra II or
Algebra II
Pre-Calculus
2. 4th Year Math
3. World Geography
3. World History
3. U.S. History
3. Government &
Economics
4. IPC or Biology
4. IPC, Biology,
Chemistry or Physics
4. Science
4. Science
5.
5.
5.
5.
6.
6.
6.
6.
7.
7.
7.
7.
8.
8.
8.
8.
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
STUDENT FEES
ACADEMIC FEES
Teen Leadership I Ropes Course $35 - not required of students that do not attend
Teen Leadership II Ropes Course $35 - not required of students that do not attend
Credit Recovery Night School $300
ACADEMIC EXTRA CURRICULAR COMPETITION FEES
Speech / Debate For tournament, membership fees
Up to $50 per student
FINE ARTS CURRICULAR FEES
Orchestra Instrument rental fee $100
Band Instrument rental fee $100
Art 1Supply Fee$30-$40
Pre AP Art 1 Supply Fee$40-$45
Art IISupply Fee$45-$55
Pre AP Art IISupply Fee$45-$55
Art II Ceramics
Supply Fee
$35-$40
Art III & Art IV
Supply Fee
$55-$65
AP Studio Drawing
Supply Fee/Matting Fee
$50-$60 / $25
Ap Studio Art 2D Design
Supply Fee/Matting Fee
$50-$60 / $25
AP Studio 3D
Supply Fee
$60-$60
Technical TheaterSupply Fee$35
Intermediate Technical Theater I
Supply Fee$35
Technical Theater IISupply Fee$40
Technical Theater III-IVSupply Fee$50
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17
19
ESTIMATED FEES/COST
ASSOCIATED WITH CTE COURSES
Course
20
Fees/Costs
3D Modeling & Animation
$25
Accounting I
$18.50 Workbook
Accounting II
$18.50 Workbook
Advanced Fashion Design
$25
Advanced Floral Design
$50
Aerospace Engineering
$20
Ag Mechanics
$30
Animation
$25
Audio/Video Production
$25
Child Guidance
$30, $3 CPR Certification
Culinary Arts & Advanced Culinary Arts
$50, $20 Uniform
Digital Electronics
$20
Education & Training
$30, $3 CPR Certification
Electrocardiogram
$200-$300 Certification Exams, Health Screenings
Emergency Medical Technician
$200-$300 Certification Exams, Health Screenings
Fashion Design
$25
Fashion Marketing
$25
Floral Design
$40
Food Science
$25
Graphic Design & Illustration
$25
Health Science
$10 CPR Certification
Health Science Clinical
$200-$300 Certification Exams, Health Screenings
Horticulture
$25
Interior Design
$25
Introduction to Culinary Arts
$50 ServSafe Exam, Lab Fees
Journalism/Photojournalism
$50
Law Enforcement
$50, $3 CPR Certification
Marketing Dynamics
$30 DECA Dues
Medical Microbiology
$50 Lab Supplies
Mock Trial
$10
Pathophysiology
$25 Lab Supplies
Pharmacology
$200-$300 Certification Exams, Health Screenings
PLTW - Pre-Engineering
$5-$10
Practicum in Government
$3 CPR Certification
Sports Management
Survey of Law, Public Safety, Corrections &
Security
$30 DECA Dues
TV Broadcast
$50
Wildlife Management
$5-$10 Hunting Safety Permit
$3 CPR Certification
Frisco Independent School District
last updated 01/04/17